Lock an iPart?

[mrack42]

Is there a way to lock an iPart's geometry, so users can only modify the table?

[johnsonshiue]

Hi! The author table is an embedded object in the iPart factory ipt file. If you allow users to modify the table, the whole part needs to be editable. What do you mean by not changing the geometry? Do you want to block users from changing features (then what about changing features via table)? Or, you don't want to have any feature on the part except a base body?

Thanks!

[mrack42]

I want to block adding sketches, performing operations (Extrude, Revolve and such), and editing existing sketches.  I want to allow ONLY editing the table... revising numbers ini the table and adding new rows in the table.

There are some users who have enough knowledge to be dangerous, and not enough to appreciate the ramifications of their actions.  I've had two iParts now that got hopelessly ravaged (didn't find out about it until it was too late), and one that was inappropriately modified, which was probably used in a few thousand drawings... luckily that one was easy to undo the damage.

[mdavis22569]

Are you using Vault?

[mrack42]

Not using Vault.

[mdavis22569]

Do you keep them on the network, or on their pc's? If it's on the network, then set up read/write permissions on the files. That way they can't save back. However they could do a save as, but not as the same part number. Just a thought

[mrack42]

Well, they do need to be able to create new members in the iPart.  I don't think I'm going to get what I want here... I think it's going to be either "don't use iParts" or "deal with it". 😞

[mcgyvr]

Simple re-explain the importance of maintaining accurate cad data..

If they can't follow that.. Fire Them

[johnsonshiue]

Hi! If the geometry is pretty much all set and there is no variation among members, you could use Copy Object command to make a copy of the solid body, turn it into a dumb solid, and delete the original body. It will prevent any further change to the features, since there are essentailly no features any more.

Thanks!

[mrack42]

The thing is they aren't dedicated drafters... they mostly have other responsibilities.  Good, smart people, it's just not what they most often do.  Can't fire the electrician for messing up the plumbing.  The obvious follow up is "Why did you hire an electrician to do the plumbing?"... to which I can only respond that I didn't... not my call.

[mcgyvr]

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@mrack42 wrote:

The thing is they aren't dedicated drafters... they mostly have other responsibilities.  Good, smart people, it's just not what they most often do.  Can't fire the electrician for messing up the plumbing.  The obvious follow up is "Why did you hire an electrician to do the plumbing?"... to which I can only respond that I didn't... not my call.

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No they are put into a position that they are not adequately trained for.. Thats the problem. 

Its not your call but if its messing with your job and costing you time its YOUR responsibility to inform whomever made the call that the lack of training is causing you problems. 

[mrack42]

Aye, and also my job to offer alternative, simple solutions, beyond "fire them".